New frontline in snake rescue

The volunteers are taught how to safely remove snakes from residential areas.

Damien McIntyre: ABC News

A group of northern Tasmanians have been trained to deal with the threat of snakes invading homes this summer.

The volunteers have just completed a course teaching them how to rescue snakes and lizards from houses and gardens which border bushland.

Launceston reptile expert, Ian Norton, says the number of snakes making their way into Tasmanian suburbs has been rising in recent years and there is a shortage of volunteers in the reptile rescue program.

He says the volunteers are taught how to safely remove snakes from residential areas and administer first aid.

He expects they will make a significant contribution.

"It's crucially important, as the years go by the numbers of snakes, especially in houses increases, to the point now where its almost critical," he said.

Mr Norton, says Tasmanians can take steps to stop snakes from entering their homes.

"The message is for people to be snake aware, keep your fly wire doors shut and screens on your window and remember if a mouse can get into your house generally a snake can," he said.